Minimum PTE Score for New Zealand in 2026: For Study, Work and PR
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Minimum PTE Score for New Zealand in 2026 varies by visa and study level, with student visas usually needing 50-67, work visas around 36-58, and PR categories often requiring 58 or higher based on skill and role.
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Planning to study, work, or migrate to New Zealand? Understanding the minimum PTE score for New Zealand in 2026 is one of the first things you should check. Different visas, universities, and job roles accept different PTE score ranges, so knowing the numbers early really helps.
For most student visas, a PTE Academic score around 50-58 is commonly accepted, while work and residence pathways usually ask for higher scores, like 58-65 or above. The exact requirement depends on your visa type, institution, and occupation. In this blog, explore details on the accepted PTE score for New Zealand and how to plan your application.
Minimum PTE Score for New Zealand Visas
The New Zealand PTE score requirements differ based on the immigration pathway, programs chosen by students, etc. The details of the PTE score requirements for different immigration purposes are as follows:
1. PTE Score for Studying in New Zealand
If you are planning to study in New Zealand, your PTE Academic score plays a key role in your student visa and admission process. The required score mainly depends on the level of the course you choose, with higher programs needing stronger English proficiency.
|
Course Level |
Minimum PTE Score Range |
|
Foundation Programs |
36 to 50 |
|
Undergraduate Degrees |
51 to 60 |
|
Postgraduate Degrees |
57 to 67 |
2. New Zealand PTE Requirement for Different Visa Types
The required PTE score for New Zealand changes based on the visa category and the purpose of travel. Some visas focus on overall English ability, while others require minimum scores in specific skills like speaking or listening.
|
Visa Category |
Minimum PTE Requirement |
|
Skilled Migrant Category & Silver Fern Job Search Visa (main applicant) |
Overall score of 58 or higher |
|
Religious Workers & Partners/Dependent Children of Residence from Work Applicants |
At least 36 overall |
|
Dependent Child Resident Visa |
Minimum overall score of 36 |
|
Parent Resident Visa |
Either 36 overall or 29 or above in any two skills (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) |
|
Entrepreneur Visa & Employees of Relocating Businesses |
Minimum score of 29 |
|
Global Impact Work Visa |
Overall score of 58 or more |
|
China Working Holiday Visa |
At least 42 overall |
|
Working Holiday Visa (Philippines, Thailand, Turkey, Vietnam) |
Minimum score of 30 |
|
Peru Working Holiday Visa |
Score of 36 in Speaking plus 36 in one other skill |
Also Read: Why Study in New Zealand?
New Zealand PTE Score for Top Universities
PTE Academic is widely accepted by leading universities in New Zealand, but the minimum score can differ based on the institution and program level. Knowing these cut-offs early helps you shortlist universities that match your English proficiency.
|
University |
Minimum PTE Academic Score |
|
University of Auckland |
58 |
|
University of Canterbury |
58 |
|
University of Waikato |
65 |
|
Auckland University of Technology (AUT) |
58 |
|
Victoria University of Wellington |
50 |
|
University of Otago |
50 |
|
Massey University |
58 |
|
Lincoln University |
58 |
|
University of Canterbury (select programs) |
50 |
|
University of Waikato (select programs) |
50 |
Read Next: PTE Tips & Tricks
PTE vs IELTS for New Zealand: Which Test Should You Choose?
Both Pearson Test of English (PTE) and International English Language Testing System (IELTS) are accepted for New Zealand university admission, student visas, work and immigration process.
However, the two English language tests differ in format, scoring, and evaluation method. The detailed comparison of PTE vs IELTS has been listed below to help you decide which one suits best for your immigration needs.
|
Feature |
PTE (Pearson Test of English) |
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) |
|
Test Format |
Computer-based |
Paper-based & Computer-based |
|
Sections |
Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening |
Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking |
|
Speaking Test |
Recorded responses via computer |
Face-to-face with an examiner |
|
Scoring System |
10–90 scale, AI-driven automated scoring |
0–9 Band Score, human evaluation |
|
Test Duration |
Around 2 hours |
2 hours 45 minutes |
|
Result Time |
24-48 hours |
3–13 days (5 days for computer-based, up to 13 days for paper-based) |
|
Acceptance |
Accepted in New Zealand, Australia, Canada, the UK, the USA & more |
Globally-recognized, including universities & immigration bodies |
|
Difficulty Level |
Convenient for tech-savvy test-takers; AI scoring can be strict |
More subjective; speaking relies on human interaction |
|
Writing Tasks |
Essay writing, summarising text |
Essay writing, report/letter writing |
Tips to Meet the New Zealand PTE Score Requirements
Scoring well in PTE Academic is important if you want to meet the New Zealand PTE score criteria for universities or visas. Below are some useful tips to help you score better for PTE for New Zealand.
- Understand the scoring pattern: Each section is scored differently, so know how speaking, writing, reading, and listening affect your overall score and skill scores.
- Focus on weak skill areas first: If one section is pulling your score down, spend extra time improving that area instead of practising everything equally.
- Practice with real PTE-style questions: Regular mock tests help you get used to the exam format, timing, and computer-based answering style.
- Work on pronunciation and fluency: Clear speech and steady pace are key for speaking tasks, as pronunciation and fluency directly impact your score.
- Review and analyse your mock test results: Don’t just practise, check your mistakes, understand why they happened, and adjust your strategy before the next test.
Quick Read: PTE vs OET
Fulfil Your Immigration Aspirations to New Zealand With GetGIS Assistance
The ultimate minimum PTE score for New Zealand in 2025-26 varies depending on your goal and program requirements. While universities typically require PTE 50 to 58 overall, New Zealand immigration sets 58 overall as a benchmark for permanent residency.
If you are looking for further guidance on university admissions, visa requirements, and Immigration assistance for New Zealand, reach out to GetGIS. Our immigration assistance team can help you with step-by-step support from preparation to visa filing and more, so that your dream of moving to New Zealand becomes a reality.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a PTE score valid for New Zealand applications?
Do I need to meet individual skill scores or only the overall PTE score?
Can I retake the PTE exam if I don’t meet the required score?
Is PTE easier than IELTS for New Zealand?
Can I use an old PTE score for New Zealand PR or study?
